Post navigation

Month of Doppelbock!

December 2010, much like November of 2010 for me, was dedicated to a specific type of beer. As usual, I went on a whim and decided to pick the very thing that seemed to be making inroads as far as craft brewing was concerned. In addition, it just happened to be seasonally appropriate. As the title suggests, that choice was Doppelbock! Enjoy!

Bock is a type of strong lager developed in Germany during the Middle Ages. It was considered the aristocrats beer of choice, beating even wine for the privilege of being the snob’s choice of libation. Doppelbock is the stronger version of this beer, meaning double, as in double-fermented. In the last few centuries, countless varieties of Bock and Doppelbock have been produced, and no one person could ever enjoy them all. But I will do my best!

Aventinus: (5/5) By Schneider-Weisse breweries, this wheat doppelbock is one of my favorite beers of all time. It is only fitting then that I dedicate my first review to it. It’s long been a source of consternation for me that I can’t find it here in BC, but since I’ve drank so many over the years, I hardly have to drink it again in order to give it a good review. For starters, this beer is a complex, challenging brew that requires some education before it can be fully appreciated. First, one should familiarize themselves with the rather unique flavor of wheat beer (weissbier or hefeweizen), and second, become familiar with the deep and rich flavor typical of doppelbock. Then, and only then, should someone try to drink this beer!

I recall ordering my first one at the Vineyards establishment, located in the Byward Market of Ottawa. I was new and asked for something tall, dark, and German (with the addendum that I wasn’t a gay man out for a fun time!). The barkeep handed my an Aventinus, which just happened to be the brew masters favorite. It struck me as odd, being fruity, malty, with notes of chocolate and a tang that was reminiscent of Jagermeister. But in time, it came to be one of my favorites, and every time I go to Ottawa for a visit, I’m sure to stock up! Available in half-liter bottles, and at 8 percent alcohol per volume, it’s also highly intoxicating! Drink up!